An ice manufacturer using anhydrous ammonia in the plant’s refrigeration system under went an OSHA PSM inspection in September 2015. OSHA’s inspection found that the plant failed to:
- Document that equipment used in the refrigeration system complied with recognized and generally accepted engineering practices.
- Conduct a pre-startup safety review following modifications to the refrigeration system.
- Implement procedures for controlling an outside contractor’s access to process areas.
- Evaluate an outside contractor’s safety and health programs.
Other hazards identified during OSHA’s inspection included:
- Lack of weatherproof covers on circuit breakers in wet locations.
- Spliced and uninsulated power cords.
- An exposed electrical switch.
- Unmarked exits. (OSHA cited the company for similar exit hazards at its NY location in February 2013.)
Here is a breakdown of the citations: